Please complete our online application form for Interstate DBE status. The application will require you to upload an electronic image (screen print) of your business’ DBE certification profile from the online certified business directory from the Jurisdiction of Original Certification (JOC). The application will also ask for you to list your original date of DBE certification in your JOC and for you to list all UCP where your business is DBE certified.

To begin, access the online application system at omwbe.diversitycompliance.com. Once you have created an account you will want to take the following steps:

1. Click "Renew/Apply for Certification" in the upper right-hand corner.
2. Select "Your firm is currently NOT certified with OMWBE."
3. Select "Your firm is seeking Federal certification as a DBE/ACDBE."
4. Select "Your firm is NOT located in the state of Washington."
5. Select "Your firm is currently DBE/ACDBE certified in another location."

Submit an Interstate request.

Please call OMWBE at (360) 664-9750 or Toll Free (866) 208-1064 and ask to speak with a Technical Assistant. You can also email technicalassistance@omwbe.wa.gov or visit our office any time Monday through Friday from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm.

We are located at: 1110 Capitol Way South, Suite 150 Olympia, WA 98501

Click here for directions.

You may want to read the Small Business Guide at the Governor's Office of Regulatory Assistance website for information on how to start and operate a small business in Washington.

OMWBE state certification also makes it possible to participate in the Linked Deposit Program, where certified firms can work with linked deposit participating banks to see if they can receive better rates.

To apply for state certification, federal certification, or both, use our online application system.

Once your application is assigned to a Certification Analyst, it takes about 60 days for state-only applications or 90 days for federal applications, depending on the complexity and completeness of your application. Here's what you can expect:

When you submit your application, we will check for missing or incomplete mandatory documents. We will either accept your application or return it for you to resubmit with the missing information.

• You will receive an email notifying you that your application was accepted, or that it was returned for you to resubmit with specific information.

Your complete application will be assigned to a certification analyst.

• You will receive an email that includes your assigned analyst’s name and contact information.
• We process all applications as promptly as possible. Calling or emailing for status updates will not speed up your application processing time.

Depending on your certification type, your analyst may contact you to schedule an on-site interview at your business. Most interviews can be performed virtually.

The assigned analyst will review your application and documents in detail for each eligibility requirement. Typically, your analyst will may have questions or ask for additional information needed to process your application.

• You will receive a phone call, an email, or both from your assigned analyst.

After your analyst receives any additional information, it takes a few more weeks to analyze your file. During this time your analyst may reach out with additional questions needed to make a final decision.

You will receive an email once your application is either approved or denied.

State Certification:
If your firm is state certified, you are required to go through a recertification process every three years. OMWBE will email you a renewal notice prior to your renewal date. Fees are currently waived.

Federal Certification (DBE and ACDBE):
If your firm is federally-certified as a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) or an Airport Concessionaire Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE), you are required to update your certification each year. OMWBE will email you a renewal notice prior to your anniversary date. Fees are currently waived.

Federal Certification (SBE):
If your firm is federally-certified as a Small Business Enterprise (SBE), you are required to go through an annual update process every year. OMWBE will email you a renewal notice prior to your recertification date. There is no fee for a SBE annual update

The Office of Minority and Women's Business Enterprises (OMWBE) strives to provide equity in contracting and procurement opportunities with local, state and federal governments.

If you are already established or just starting a business, OMWBE certification can:

• Boost your potential for conducting business with government entities;
• Significantly increase your visibility through listings on important databases for certified firms and active bids throughout the state; and
• Provide private-sector companies another opportunity to meet their own supplier diversity goals.